Transmission questions....
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Former Sponsor
Joined: Jan 2009
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From: Los Angeles, CA
Transmission questions....
Ok guys, I have a softail but you all have way more knowledge and there are more of you bagger guys than softail guys so I am asking here.
My 5th gear on my tranny walked and caused a gnarly leak a few weeks ago. the transmission has been pulled out of the bike. I have several choices. I can replace the 5th gear and put it back together, or get a 6 speed. I'd much rather get a 6 speed as the labor involved in jsut redoing teh 5th gear is expensive and I do not want to put it back together and have it die again in another 10K miles or whatever. I do not know what caused the gear and needle bearings to walk, but it just makes sense to get a new transmission and be done with it.
A little background on the bike now. 2002 Fatboy with 52K miles. I have always run Redline shockproof in it, but I bought the bike used with 11K miles and it had whatever Harley put in it when they serviced it then. My main goal is for the bike to be as reliable as possible as a new bike is nowhere in my future right now.
Next, Screaming eagle 6 speed or a Baker tranny? The price is not that much different. DD6 or OD6 for the baker? I ride solo always and most of my riding is not on the highway although I take several highway trips a year. I called Baker and left a message. Figures.
Next question, do you need different special tools to install a baker than you would a screaming eagle 6 speed? If so, what are they and please post links so I can see what I am getting into here.
I'm waiting on word for a loan so I can get what I need and will decide once word comes through on the loan.
Thanks!
Drew
My 5th gear on my tranny walked and caused a gnarly leak a few weeks ago. the transmission has been pulled out of the bike. I have several choices. I can replace the 5th gear and put it back together, or get a 6 speed. I'd much rather get a 6 speed as the labor involved in jsut redoing teh 5th gear is expensive and I do not want to put it back together and have it die again in another 10K miles or whatever. I do not know what caused the gear and needle bearings to walk, but it just makes sense to get a new transmission and be done with it.
A little background on the bike now. 2002 Fatboy with 52K miles. I have always run Redline shockproof in it, but I bought the bike used with 11K miles and it had whatever Harley put in it when they serviced it then. My main goal is for the bike to be as reliable as possible as a new bike is nowhere in my future right now.
Next, Screaming eagle 6 speed or a Baker tranny? The price is not that much different. DD6 or OD6 for the baker? I ride solo always and most of my riding is not on the highway although I take several highway trips a year. I called Baker and left a message. Figures.
Next question, do you need different special tools to install a baker than you would a screaming eagle 6 speed? If so, what are they and please post links so I can see what I am getting into here.
I'm waiting on word for a loan so I can get what I need and will decide once word comes through on the loan.
Thanks!
Drew
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Former Sponsor
Joined: Jan 2009
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Likes: 40
From: Los Angeles, CA
Well I talked to Baker. they recommended the DD6 with a 294 first gear. I found out the tools needed are Inner race service kit and Main drive service gear kit. Just waiting to see if the money will come through now.
Drew
Drew
Road Warrior
Joined: Mar 2007
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Drew the Baker is a fine unit. I run a Screamin' Eagle sixer in my '02 Fat Boy and love it. Because I have the S.E. six speed I also have my stock 5 speed gearset and shifter drum. I will sell the whole thing cheap. It's been wrapped in plasic and sits in a box in my garage for 5 years. I'll guarantee satisfaction. Just another option.
Road Captain
Joined: Aug 2008
Posts: 559
Likes: 0
From: Berwick, Pa.
Hey Drew;
Just my opinion, but unless you are spending a lot of miles on the slab over 70mph the six speed is more nice to have then need. Baker makes a reportedly fine product, but I'd bet the difference in price between repair and part replacement of the five speed and buying a Baker 6 is large.
Just my opinion, but unless you are spending a lot of miles on the slab over 70mph the six speed is more nice to have then need. Baker makes a reportedly fine product, but I'd bet the difference in price between repair and part replacement of the five speed and buying a Baker 6 is large.
Thread Starter
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Former Sponsor
Joined: Jan 2009
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From: Los Angeles, CA
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Seasoned HDF Member
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From: Nevada
Just my opinion but I'd certainly consider Northside's offer. The type of riding you describe kind of makes the 6 speed a waste. Just another gear you'd rarely use.
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Thread Starter
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Former Sponsor
Joined: Jan 2009
Posts: 19,364
Likes: 40
From: Los Angeles, CA
Well I scored a 5 speed for a great price thanks to Northside. I'll elt everyone know how it goes as I really don't wnat to shell out $2000 I don't have. I'd prefer not to go into debt any day and like everyone has said a 6 speed is not really going to benefit me too much. Thanks Bill!
Drew
Drew
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Joined: Apr 2008
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From: USA
If you do it yourself it's not hard to change them out. You'll need a couple special tools though, which ain't cheap. I got mine slightly used off ebay for less. If you have to buy them you can use them once and then resell them. You shouldn't need to remove or install the gear retaining rings if the gearset is together but if you do an automotive axle retaining ring expander will do the job(about $10 on ebay). I like to have never figured out what to use for this.